How to build diversity among police officers

Police officers make news — and often, it’s not good news.

Recent events involving use of deadly force by police have led much of our society to develop a less than optimistic perspective toward men and women in law enforcement.

For this reason, Asian Resources, Inc. has taken the initiative to help change perceptions and give a positive turn to the significant role law enforcement plays in our community.

The program was created to promote diversity and attract our young men and women of color into police work.

So far, the focus has been three different groups in our community: Asian Pacific Islanders, African Americans and Latino/Hispanics. The goal is to have more officers on the streets representing minorities in our community.

This “Links to Law Enforcement” program was designed to help participants learn about police work and prepare for a career in law enforcement over a six-week period.

At the end of each six-week course, a graduation ceremony is held, with special guest speakers such as chiefs and captains from our local law enforcement agencies.

This program is hosted by Asian Resources and partners with the Sacramento Police Department, Sacramento County Sheriff’s Department, Elk Grove Police Department, California Highway Patrol and Sacramento County Probation.

Representatives from the agencies are highly ranked and run the program. They adapt courses to the participant’s areas of interest.

The program held its second round of graduations in the atrium of the Sacramento Police Department Headquarters in October. The next session is planned to run again February 3.

With a handful of participants interested in the next session, Asian Resources hopes this program will continue to grow and improve our community’s safety in the future.

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